Leading local hotel group Sun Siyam Resorts has won multiple accolades at the 2019 World Luxury Spa and Restaurant Awards.

In a glitzy affair at The State Hermitage Museum Official Hotel in St. Petersburg, Russia on July 6, The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi Maldives was announced the continent level winner in the category of ‘Luxury Beach Resort Spa’.

Sinbad at The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi was also named the leading ‘Mediterranean Cuisine’ restaurant in Indian Ocean.

In addition to the entire island being a sanctuary of natural beauty, The Spa by Thalgo at The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi is an open immersion in organic earth and vibrant sea, the elements from which Ayurveda draws its centuries-old healing power.

The Spa by Thalgo has perfected this ancient holistic tradition, blending its timeless wisdom with contemporary practices found both East and West. A resident Ayurvedic Doctor guides guests on their own personalised journeys to wellness both during their stay and beyond, while expert practitioners in traditional massage, authentic Maldivian-inspired rituals and world-renowned wellness practices combine finely honed knowledge with a naturally healing touch.

All this takes place in a setting that mirrors the natural splendour of the island. Wood, stone, water and light — all the fundamental elements of the earth — come together in perfect harmony in the design of the spa’s 20 treatment rooms, which are complemented by hydrotherapy pools, steam rooms and saunas. Additionally, dedicated relaxation areas are designed as natural sanctuaries, allowing guests to take a moment before emerging renewed.

The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi, the flagship property in The Sun Siyam Resorts’ collection, is located in the northern Noonu Atoll, and is accessible by a 40-minute seaplane flight from the Maldives main Velana International Airport.

Meanwhile, Sun Aqua Spa at Sun Aqua Vilu Reef won the continent level award in the category of ‘Luxury Romantic Destination Spa’, whilst its sister resort Sun Aqua Iru Veli was named the continent level winner in the category of ‘Best Unique Experience Spa’.

The Wine Cellar at Sun Aqua Vilu Reef was also crowned the best ‘Fine Dining Cuisine’ restaurant in Indian Ocean.

A major focus, the Sun Aqua Spa at the Sun Aqua Vilu Reef consists of six private treatment pavilions each with open air flower baths, open showers, a hydrotherapy area and double treatment beds. On offer is also a salon, manicure/pedicure and a beautiful relaxation area. Encompassing the Five Element Theory — Wood, Fire, Metal, Earth and Water — the spa will offer a lengthy menu of Ayurvedic wellness rituals, pampering beauty therapies and massage techniques from around the world. It also offers a selection of signature therapies to help renew body and mind, including a rich scrub of coconut or coffee, a herbal Udavarthanam detox or a relaxing, fragrant flower bath.

Sun Aqua Vilu Reef is a palm fringed paradise-like island located in Dhaal atoll, a mere 35-minute seaplane flight away from the main Velana International Airport.

The latest addition to the Sun Aqua portfolio is Sun Aqua Iru Veli, which makes its home on one of the most naturally beautiful islands in Dhaalu atoll — the naturalist wonderland of Aluvifushi, reachable by a 35-minute scenic seaplane journey from the main Velana International Airport.

Take time out to be soothed at the tranquil Sun Aqua Spa at Sun Aqua Iru Veli with seven overwater pavilions with double massage tables, open-air rain showers and romantic flower-strewn baths and a main spa house with hydrotherapy pools, steam, sauna and spa boutique.

The World Luxury Spa and Restaurant Awards recognise establishments for world-class service excellence. Awards are presented on a country, regional, continental and global basis. Winners are selected by public vote online, providing real recognition that reflects the hard work and dedication exhibited by the staff

This was the fourth event of its kind, and more than 200 guests flew in from around the world, representing more than 90 countries, 450 spas and 270 restaurants.